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Chris Ballard

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Colts' Leadership and Future Outlook Amidst Challenges

Originally Published 7 days ago — by NBC Sports

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Source: NBC Sports

The Indianapolis Colts will retain head coach Shane Steichen and GM Chris Ballard through the 2026 season despite a disappointing 8-9 finish, with team owner Carlie Irsay-Gordon expected to address the decision publicly. The team has missed the playoffs for five consecutive years, and key issues include quarterback uncertainties and draft considerations for future success.

Colts' Roster Decisions and Future QB Prospects Highlighted by Chris Ballard

Originally Published 4 months ago — by 93.5 / 107.5 The Fan

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Source: 93.5 / 107.5 The Fan

Chris Ballard held his annual roster cut press conference, expressing confidence in quarterback Anthony Richardson despite his limited NFL experience and injuries, emphasizing the team's focus on the trenches and pass-catching group, and addressing roster moves including waivers and injuries. He acknowledged the team's struggles and the importance of results in gaining fan trust, while also highlighting the Colts' strategic decisions in player development and roster management.

"Key Insights from Colts GM Chris Ballard's Pre-Draft Press Conference"

Originally Published 1 year ago — by Stampede Blue

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Source: Stampede Blue

Indianapolis Colts GM Chris Ballard discussed various topics in his annual pre-draft press conference, including the team's new director of sports performance, the extension of DeForest Buckner, the youth of the secondary, the return of tight end Drew Ogletree, the challenges of evaluating character in prospects, the offensive-heavy nature of this year's draft class, and the possibility of trading up in the draft.

"Colts Lock in DeForest Buckner with Lucrative Contract Extension"

Originally Published 1 year ago — by NBC Sports

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Source: NBC Sports

The Indianapolis Colts have signed defensive tackle DeForest Buckner to a two-year contract extension worth $46 million, keeping him with the team through the 2026 season. General manager Chris Ballard praised Buckner as a destructive force on the defensive line and a pillar of the locker room, highlighting his contributions over the past four years. Buckner, who has recorded impressive stats during his time with the Colts, including 32.5 sacks, 42 tackles for loss, and 87 quarterback hits, was also selected for his third Pro Bowl.

"Colts GM Chris Ballard Emphasizes Need for Secondary Additions in Free Agency"

Originally Published 1 year ago — by IndyStar

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Source: IndyStar

Colts general manager Chris Ballard defends the team's in-house signings, acknowledging the need to add to the secondary. Despite dedicating over $200 million to re-signing in-house free agents, Ballard admits the team needs to address the secondary and is still considering available veteran options. The Colts have allowed top cornerback options to sign elsewhere and have yet to re-sign strong safety Julian Blackmon. Ballard emphasizes the importance of making timely decisions in free agency and acknowledges the team's ongoing efforts to improve the secondary.

"Assessing the Impact of L'Jarius Sneed's Trade from the Chiefs to the Titans"

Originally Published 1 year ago — by Stampede Blue

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Source: Stampede Blue

The Indianapolis Colts' failure to secure L'Jarius Sneed highlights deeper issues with their approach to free agency and team building under general manager Chris Ballard. Critics argue that Ballard's reluctance to make significant moves in free agency has hindered the team's ability to acquire difference makers, leading to a lack of success in the AFC South and the playoffs. With an emerging quarterback and potential for improvement, there are growing concerns about the team's strategy and its impact on their competitiveness in the division.

"Colts' Chris Ballard Reunites Team, Signs Joe Flacco as Backup: Free Agency Roundup"

Originally Published 1 year ago — by Stampede Blue

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Source: Stampede Blue

Indianapolis Colts' general manager Chris Ballard has focused on retaining key players from last season's roster, rewarding them with new contracts while being selective in free agent signings. Despite the team's mostly unchanged roster, Ballard's approach of investing in existing talent is praised, but it's acknowledged that additional outside help is needed for the team to compete at a higher level. Strengthening the secondary is highlighted as a priority, and fans are hopeful for impactful signings before the season begins.

"Colts Owner Jim Irsay's Positive Health Update and Hall of Fame Plans"

Originally Published 1 year ago — by Stampede Blue

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Source: Stampede Blue

Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay, currently hospitalized following leg surgery, joked about the team trading up to draft Marvin Harrison Jr., son of Colts legend Marvin Harrison Sr. Despite the light-hearted comment, it's unlikely the Colts would give up the necessary draft capital. Irsay's health status has been kept private, but signs indicate he is gradually improving, which is encouraging news for the team and fans.

"Colts GM Confirms Michael Pittman Jr.'s Future in Indy"

Originally Published 1 year ago — by NBC Sports

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Source: NBC Sports

Indianapolis Colts General Manager Chris Ballard expects wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. to remain with the team for the upcoming season, indicating that the franchise tag may be used before the deadline. Ballard has been in discussions with Pittman's agent about a potential long-term deal and expressed confidence that Pittman will be on the Week One roster, whether through the franchise tag or a negotiated contract.

"Colts' Anthony Richardson: A Legitimate Passer Unfazed by Injury, Ready to Begin Throwing Next Month"

Originally Published 2 years ago — by NBC Sports

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Source: NBC Sports

Colts General Manager Chris Ballard expresses optimism about quarterback Anthony Richardson's abilities, emphasizing his passing skills and potential for improvement. Despite Richardson's rookie season being cut short by injury, Ballard believes that the young quarterback's humility, empathy, and work ethic will contribute to his development. Ballard also highlights the benefits of Richardson's ability to observe and learn while sitting out, and looks forward to his continued growth and success on the field.

"Anthony Richardson: Rising Star Quarterback Shines for Colts"

Originally Published 2 years ago — by NBC Sports

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Source: NBC Sports

Indianapolis Colts General Manager Chris Ballard expressed confidence in rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson, stating that he is a "pretty cool customer" who can handle the ups and downs of a season. Despite not having running back Jonathan Taylor for the first four games, Ballard believes Richardson's growth will not be stunted. Richardson has been named QB1 for the Colts' season opener against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Jonathan Taylor's Fate in the Hands of Jim Irsay

Originally Published 2 years ago — by NBC Sports

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Source: NBC Sports

Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay is reportedly calling the shots on running back Jonathan Taylor's contract situation, leaving General Manager Chris Ballard in a difficult position. Despite Ballard's desire to resolve the impasse, Irsay's influence has tied his hands. The Colts have a history of not extending contracts for great running backs, opting to let them finish their rookie deals, tag them once or twice, and then draft their replacements. Taylor, however, is trying to disrupt this plan by seeking a new contract. Ballard, unable to be candid, cited the team's poor performance last season as the reason for not extending Taylor's contract. The only way out of the situation may be to trade Taylor or for Irsay to allow Ballard to mend fences and offer him the contract he has earned.